Originally published at Orange County Catholic
CHRISTMAS HOLDS A profound place in my heart as a Christian, embodying the joyful celebration of God’s love through the birth of His Son, Jesus Christ, over 2,025 years ago. It is a time for us to reflect deeply on the journey of faith, the essence of hope and the boundless gift of divine love.
The season of Advent, spanning four weeks leading to Christmas, provides a meaningful framework for this reflection, grounding us and our families in the spiritual significance of Christ’s arrival in a world yearning for peace and love. “Emmanuel”—God with us—reminds us of the transformative power of His presence among us. The season of Advent serves as a spiritual prelude to the celebration of Christmas, inviting us to prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ. Each of the four weeks is marked by themes of hope, peace, joy and love, symbolized by the lighting of candles on the Advent wreath. This tradition reminds us to pause amidst the busyness of life and reflect on the promises of God. Advent is also a call to repentance and renewal. As John the Baptist proclaimed in preparation for Christ, so too do we need to prepare our hearts
